Puno , Peru

Walking City tour Puno

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(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a culture‑first, story‑rich walk designed for Puno’s altitude and rhythm. We connect architecture, museum pieces, viewpoints, markets, and devotion into one clear narrative—so carvings on the Cathedral make sense at the museum, the hilltop view reframes the city below, and the market’s rituals illuminate the Candelaria story. It’s intimate and unhurried: time for photos, questions, and authentic encounters (always respectful of worship and vendors). Expect real Puno—its art, faith, and everyday life—in one memorable walk.

Available options

Walking City tour (group tour)

Group Tour: This is a group walking tour, good relationship between quality/price

Walking city tour (private)

Private service: You'll go with your own guide, choose your starting time and the guide will do the magick.

What's included

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Start in the Plaza de Armas to read the Cathedral’s Andean‑Baroque façade up close. Your guide highlights carved sirens “playing” the charango, native flowers, and faces—symbols that blend Catholic imagery with high‑Andean beliefs. Learn how this 18th‑century temple was executed in stone under the indigenous master builder Simón de Asto and supported by local miners, then step back for wide shots of the twin towers and lively square life. It’s a concise lesson in Puno’s mestizo baroque that sets the tone for the rest of the walk.

Just off the main square, this intimate museum stitches together Puno’s timeline. With your guide, browse pre‑Inca and Inca ceramics and stonework, funerary objects and mummies from the Altiplano, plus a colonial/republican art gallery—including pieces collected by the German artist Carlos Dreyer. You’ll also see models of chullpas (ancient funerary towers), textiles, and metalwork that frame what you’ll encounter around Lake Titicaca. Compact and well‑curated, it delivers deep context without rushing

A gentle climb brings us to Huajsapata Hill, crowned by a statue of Manco Cápac, legendary founder of the Inca Empire. From here the city spreads beneath you and Lake Titicaca stretches to the horizon—prime time for panoramas and a short rest.

Meet herbalists and ritual‑goods vendors at the Laykacota “Witches’ Market,” where shelves brim with muña and coca, amulets, and offerings used in Andean folk healing and devotion. This is a respectful, eyes‑open look at living traditions: we discuss how ‘despachos’ to Pachamama fit into daily life and festivities, when to ask before photographing, and how to buy small items ethically if you wish—always supporting local families

Walk to the handsome stone arch of Arco Deustua, built in 1847 to honor the heroes of Peru’s independence after the battles of Junín and Ayacucho. It’s a photogenic pause point where we decode inscriptions and decorative details before continuing along Jirón Lima back toward the center—linking 19th‑century memories with today’s street life.

At the north end of pedestrian Jirón Lima, Parque Pino is Puno’s social living room. Beneath clipped trees stands the monument to Dr. Manuel Pino—local hero of the War of the Pacific—unveiled in 1901. We’ll take a moment to people‑watch, chat about nearby landmarks (like San Juan church and classic facades), and see how this square threads together civic life, history, and devotion.

Across Parque Pino, this church—sanctuary of the Virgen de la Candelaria—pairs an unusual French‑ogival façade with a modest interior holding the city’s most beloved image. Hear how her devotion took root in the 18th century and how February processions transform these streets with music and dance. When doors are open, we enter quietly to appreciate the altars and observe local worship.

What's not included

Carlos Dreyer Museum Tickets - (Cash Only 15 soles p/p)

Cathedral entrances ticket (Cash only 15 soles p/p)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We Meet Travelers at the main Cathedral, on the same Plaza de Armas

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About Puno

Puno is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and stunning natural beauty, Puno is a must-visit destination for those exploring Peru's cultural heartland. The city is the gateway to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Top Attractions

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique islands like the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.

Nature Full day Budget to Moderate (Boat tours range from 50-150 PEN)

Sillustani

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Historical Half day Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Puno, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, churches, and vibrant local life. It's a great place to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Cathedral of Puno

The Cathedral of Puno is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Plaza de Armas. It features a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and houses several religious artifacts.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Puno Museum of Art and Culture

This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Puno region, featuring artifacts, textiles, and art from the Aymara and Quechua cultures, as well as pre-Inca and Inca civilizations.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Trucha a la Plancha (Grilled Trout)

Fresh trout from Lake Titicaca, grilled and served with local potatoes and vegetables. A must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.

Chairo

A hearty soup made with lamb, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, flavored with local herbs and spices. A traditional dish of the Puno region.

Soup Contains meat and gluten.

Sopa de Quinoa (Quinoa Soup)

A nutritious and flavorful soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and sometimes meat. A staple in the Andean diet.

Soup Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Pique a la Puneña

A spicy and flavorful dish made with diced beef, potatoes, onions, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper). A popular appetizer in Puno.

Appetizer Contains meat and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Cultural tours Lakefront walks Spa treatments Coffee shop visits Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry Season)

This is the best time to visit Puno as the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the attractions. The temperatures are cool but comfortable.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Aymara, Quechua, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Puno is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or purified water.

Getting there

By air

Puno International Airport (JUL) • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center

By train

Puno Station

By bus

Puno Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Puno. They cover most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Alto de la Alameda El Mirador

Day trips

Uros Floating Islands

1-2 hours by boat • Half day to full day

The Uros Floating Islands are a unique attraction in Lake Titicaca, made entirely of totora reeds by the Uros people. Visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.

Taquile Island

3-4 hours by boat • Full day to overnight

Taquile Island is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional textiles, and unique culture. The island is home to a close-knit community that preserves its ancient customs and way of life.

Sillustani

35 km (22 miles) from Puno • Half day

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Festivals

Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria • February Puno Week • November 5-12 Carnaval de Puno • February or March (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Acclimate to the high altitude by taking it easy for the first day or two.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures throughout the day.
Try local dishes and support local businesses to get an authentic experience.